Carrick delighted to be back for Man Utd FA Cup win

The captain returned to take the armband at Huish Park and produced his customary cool performance in the heart of the midfield.

"There were a few passes going astray but it was great to be back," he said. "It has been a long time, it's been very frustrating and it's not been a great season really up to now. Considering where I was after the Burton game, to be back out there now was great.

"It was a little bit strange before the game, if I am honest, after being out for so long, but it's great to be out with the boys and more important to get the result and get us through. I'm fine now and have been training for a number of weeks. Obviously, I'm not quite match fit - it probably takes a little bit longer as you get older to get match fit. But I feel fine, I feel healthy and that felt good so there are no problems at all."

Carrick believes a number of options are open to Jose Mourinho now, particularly after the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, and with the squad looking strong.

"I think, all of sudden, it is funny how the season goes, but, at the moment, pretty much most of the squad is fit," he added. "Hopefully that stays the same because this is the time where things really kick into gear.

"You need as many options as fit as you can as the games will be coming thick and fast. It is a good sign as this is the business end of the season, when you want to be in with a shout. We are looking good at the moment."